University of Central Missouri

The University of Central Missouri joins You Can Play in working for diversity and inclusion for all in sports - including LGBT athletes, coaches and fans.

With Mo the Mule as a mascot, the Mules and Jennies of CMU have committed to "providing an inclusive, student-centered learning environment," according to a statement issued by the school.

"UCM has a proud NCAA Division II tradition of winning athletics, including more than 200 conference championships and eight national championships. This winning tradition includes support and inclusion for all students and student athletes based on their value as individuals. We are proud to join in sharing this message of inclusiveness for all students, including LGBTQ students and all minority populations, not only on athletic teams, but in all endeavors at UCM.

"Students and staff from UCM’s Office of Mentoring, Advocacy and Peer Support, University Relations, and Athletics collaborated with university leadership to produce our You Can Play video. The video features more than 30 students from multiple sports teams and academic teams, including basketball, wrestling, soccer, softball, football, DECA and the speech and debate team. Additionally, athletic director Jerry Hughes and UCM President Chuck Ambrose are featured in the video. You Can Play’s messaging of support, inclusion and teaming up for respect fits our philosophy as a university and what we want to provide for our students on and off the field. The University of Central Missouri proudly supports the message that if you can play, you can play."